South Korean decision to close all coal-fired power plants by 2040 sounds alarm for Australian exports

The US government announced a blanket suspension of immigrant visa processing for applicants from 75 countries, including Russia, Iran, Brazil, Egypt, Thailand, Nigeria, and Somalia. This suspension will take effect on January 21, with no specified end date.

The Trump administration has announced an indefinite suspension of immigrant visa processing for individuals from 75 countries, including Brazil, Iran, Russia, and Somalia, effective January 21. This decision is part of a broader effort to limit legal immigration pathways to the United States, targeting applicants deemed likely to become a public charge reliant on government benefits.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva held a phone call to discuss the situation in Venezuela, highlighting ongoing diplomatic engagement between the two nations regarding regional stability. This conversation comes amid increasing tensions surrounding Venezuela's political landscape and external pressures from the United States.

On January 13, 2026, leaders from Japan and South Korea met in central Japan, where they engaged in a surprise drum performance to popular K-pop hits, signaling a cultural connection while discussing deeper cooperation on economic security, defense, and diplomatic issues.

The viral queer ice hockey romance series, Heated Rivalry, which premiered in November, is challenging the hyper-masculine culture prevalent in men's sports. The story, based on a book by Rachel Reid, follows two fictional ice hockey players, Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, and has led to increased attendance at NHL games in North America and a spike in interest in ice hockey in Australia.

Leaders from Japan and South Korea engaged in a drum duet, performing to popular tracks from BTS and KPop Demon Hunters, as a light-hearted conclusion to their summit discussions. This unique cultural exchange highlights the growing influence of K-pop in diplomatic settings and the potential for soft power in international relations.

A chocolate-inspired dessert from Dubai has gained immense popularity in South Korea, leading to shops selling hundreds of cookies within minutes. This surge in demand has resulted in a significant increase in the prices of ingredients used to make these treats.

Animals at Rio de Janeiro’s BioParque zoo were treated to popsicles and frozen treats on Tuesday as the city experienced extreme heat during Brazil's summer. This initiative aims to provide relief to the animals amid soaring temperatures.